Ultimate Beef Stew Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic

Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of rich and hearty beef stew to warm you up on a chilly day. Packed with tender chunks of beef, wholesome vegetables, and a deeply flavored broth, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, from cozy dinners to meal prepping. Follow this guide for a foolproof way to make the ultimate beef stew that’s guaranteed to satisfy.

Ingredients

• Main Ingredients:
  • 800g beef chuck or stewing beef, cut into cubes
  • 2 carrots, sliced into rounds
  • 3 medium potatoes, diced
  • 1 cup green beans or peas
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth or stock
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
  • 3 tbsp flour (for thickening)
• Spices and Seasonings:
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Toss the beef cubes in flour, shaking off any excess.
3. Add the beef to the pot in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Reduce the heat to medium and add the onion to the pot.
2. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened, then stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

1. Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for 2 minutes to enhance its sweetness.
2. Add the soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce, along with the thyme, paprika, and bay leaf.

Step 4: Add the Liquid and Vegetables

1. Return the beef to the pot and add the carrots, potatoes, and green beans.
2. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring all ingredients are covered.

Step 5: Simmer and Cook

1. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
2. The beef should become tender, and the broth will thicken naturally as it cooks.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the bay leaf and season with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
2. Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread or biscuits.

Serving Suggestions
This beef stew pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread, creamy mashed potatoes, or a light green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it over buttered noodles or rice.

Pro Tips

• To deepen the flavor, deglaze the pot with ½ cup red wine or beer before adding the broth.
• For a slow cooker version, prepare the ingredients as instructed, then transfer them to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days—this stew tastes even better the next day!

Conclusion
This ultimate beef stew recipe is a timeless comfort food that’s simple to make and full of bold, satisfying flavors. Perfect for a family meal or weekly meal prep, this stew will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try today and let us know how you enjoyed it in the comments below!

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